South Dublin County Council this week released its plans for the Dublin Mountains Project, which will transform Montpellier Hill (the Hellfire Club) and Massy's Woods.

The plans are set to develop over the coming months, with construction set to begin by next year.

According to the project leaders, over 350,000 people use the Dublin Mountains as an amenity every single year.

Here's everything you need to know about the Dublin Mountains Project.

Hellfire Club (Image: Wikimedia / Joe King)

What is the Dublin mountains project?

It's a project being put together by South Dublin County Council, Coillte and the Dublin Mountains Partnership to develop Montpellier Hill (including the Hellfire Club) and Massy's Wood.

The plans will include enhancing visitor facilities and developing a cafe, improving trails and connecting the Hellfire Club and Massy's Wood.

A natural play area and improved parking and access to the area is also within the plans.

What is the project status now?

A memorandum of understanding has been signed with Coillte to bring the project to the planning stages.

There was a feasibility concept developed for the area, which was considered by the project steering committee, Corporate Policy Group of SDCC, the Strategic Policy Committees, the full council, and Coillte.

A consultant team has been appointed, with a planning application expected to go to An Bord Pleanala by the end of May.

Dublin Mountains (Image: South Dublin County Council)

When is work expected to start?

If the planning process goes to plan, works are expected to start next year.

How can I get involved?

SDCC intends to hold public workshops throughout February and March to engage with the local community as the details of the project begin to form.

A model of the proposal is also being commissioned for the public, and SDCC intends to keep its site updated as the project progresses.

You can find out more information on the Dublin Mountains Project here.